Kawasaki has taken the wraps off its retro-modern
offerings, the 2018 Kawasaki Z900 RS and the Kawasaki Z9RSC, at the 2017 Tokyo
Motor Show. The former is a production motorcycle, while the latter is a
one-off custom.
The 2018 Kawasaki Z900 RS is an evocative mix of
traditional design and modern technology. The design of this motorcycle is
reminiscent of the iconic Kawasaki Z1 Super Four 900 of 1972. The lighting
systems are all-LED. The teardrop fuel tank, alloy wheel design, and the tail
cowl are all reminiscent of the Z1. The motorcycle features a twin-pod
instrument cluster with analogue speedometer and tachometer. There is a
multifunctional digital inset in between, which enhances the functionality of
the bike.
Kawasaki has borrowed the Z900’s engine for this
motorcycle. The 948cc in-line four-cylinder engine produces 111 PS at 8,500 rpm
and 98.5 Nm at 6,500 rpm. The engine mates with a 6-speed transmission.
For suspension, the Z900 RS employs a 41 mm inverted
fork with compression and rebound damping and spring preload adjustability. The
rear comes with a Horizontal Back-link, gas-charged shock with rebound damping
and spring preload adjustability. Brakes include dual 300 mm discs with
Monobloc radial callipers, and a single 250 mm disc with single piston
calliper.
The Kawasaki Z9RSC is a unique custom creation with
lots of carbon fibre bits for lighter weight and better cycle parts. It shares
the same engine with the Z900 RS. The motorcycle features upside down Ohlins front
fork with gold finish. The rear gets an Ohlins remote-adjustable monoshock. The
bike comes to a halt using twin slotted discs at the front with Brembo radial
calliper; and a single slotted disc at the rear.
The alloy wheels are shod with high-performance
Pirelli Supercorsa tyres, and the seat features diamond stitching for a more
premium look. The rear licence plate holder is carbon fibre as well.
